Owen is teamed with Hathaway Dinwiddie Construction company and DES Architects on this $31 million dollars Design Build project for the University of Irvine to provide structural engineering for the newest and most state-of-the-art eye care and treatment facility to be built on the West Coast.
The project is a four story concrete frame structure with the lowest ground level partially below grad as the site slopes downward from back to front. Because the lower level has retaining walls on three sides and the structure could not be separated from the walls, a two stage analysis had to incorporated into the design. Overall moment frame reinforcing was reduced. The framing for the structure consists of special moment frame in the orthogonal directions with post-tensioned flat slabs at each floor level. Conventional spread footings constitute the foundation support system.
When completed, the facility will feature an outpatient surgery center, patient exam and waiting areas, optical shop, and faculty office conference space, therapies (physical and occupational therapy) therapeutic recreation, socialization, personal care and dining.
The building is prominently located at the front entrance of the University’s campus. Construction is expected to be completed in 2013.